Scarneo-Miller emphasizes the aim of the updated statement:
“The ultimate goal of this position statement is to reduce unnecessary deaths from sport participation. We want this document to save more lives.”
The updated guidelines advocate for a designated EAP coordinator to ensure sport and venue-specific preparedness, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach. This change acknowledges the unique challenges posed by different sports environments and the varied skills of team staff.
Key updates in the statement include the integration of a pre-event medical meeting to outline emergency procedures, personnel roles, and equipment locations.
This shift towards more comprehensive, venue-specific plans is aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency responses. Scarneo-Miller added:
“Having a plan for just the facility isn’t good enough anymore...We need a sport- and venue-specific emergency action plan because coaches and staff have their own unique skills they can contribute to the plan activation.”
The statement's development involved a diverse group of sports medicine professionals, ensuring a broad and inclusive approach to safety. The emphasis is on creating a culture of preparedness that engages all stakeholders—from athletic trainers to athletes—in fostering a safe sporting environment.
Scarneo-Miller's work, presented at NATA’s 75th Clinical Symposia and AT Expo, sets a new standard in sports safety, urging collaborative efforts to protect athletes at all levels.
The community is encouraged to adopt these recommendations to enhance safety measures in sports settings.
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